Tarapiroe, the black–fronted tern at Lake Ohau

Today, the 2nd of February, 2010, while walking along Lake Ohau, we had a special encounter with what I believe are Tarapiroe, New Zealand endemic black-fronted Terns. A small flock of about 10 birds, swooped over us and  beside us.  They soared high and then swooped, at times flying quite close to the road.  They were most assuredly catching insects but were very athletic and showy.  The flock had juveniles as well as adults...some of the birds had black caps and some not. Watching them was quite an exhilarating experience.

Tarapiroe are on the endangered list, with approximately only 5,000 remaining.  The black-fronted tern is the only inland New Zealand Tern. They breed inland in shingle river beds in the South Island, in areas like the Ohau Conservation area, and only visit the coast to feed in Autumn and Winter.  They catch insects in the air, which is what we saw them doing today. 

(Note: if there are any ornithologists reading this blog, I'd appreciate confirmation as to whether the photos I am posting here are indeed black-fronted Tern, Tarapiroe.  Thank you!)